Trans Asia 09
 

Hi all,

Me and a mate are planning a trip UK to far east Russia for 09. Basic route is the Balkans, Turkey, Iran, then through the stans, dip into Russia, then into mongolia then back into Russia for the last leg.

So some questions...

What obvious issues have I not thought about with that route?
What is the best (easiest admin/border/security wise) route from Iran through to the Altay region in Russia?
What is there a passable road (i.e. no big rivers without bridges!) all the way to Vladivostok? (I'm assuming Magadan will be a leap too far).
We are thinking of flying ourselves and the bikes from Vlad to somewhere in North America. Then making the rest of the trip up from there depending on remaining funds etc. What routes (flights) are available, at what sort of price?

Sorry if this has been covered elsewhere, but I've read so much different information that I wanted some specific advice. Really appriciate any thoughts you have.

Many thanks!

"What obvious issues have I not thought about with that route?" Have you thought about Letters of Invitation? You need them for requesting visa for the Stans and Russia. For Russia, as you want to travel to Mongolia too, try to get a multiple entry business visa.

"What is the best (easiest admin/border/security wise) route from Iran through to the Altay region in Russia?" For a route look at Central Asia. Central Asia is quite interesting and not too difficult.

"What is there a passable road (i.e. no big rivers without bridges!) all the way to Vladivostok? (I'm assuming Magadan will be a leap too far)." Information dating from 2004 (it will be better now): http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...t=martheijnens.

"What routes (flights) are available, at what sort of price?" I am afraid there not too many flights from Vladivostok but you can take the ferry to Japan.

Prepare yourself well. Search the Hubb.

Thanks for your help! Anyone else got some words of wisdom?